Website function questions — Ask the Inmate
InmateAid is designed to be as simple and accessible as possible, but questions about how the platform works are completely normal, especially for first-time users navigating a stressful situation. This section covers the most common technical and account questions including how to create an account and set up an inmate profile, how to send letters and photos through the platform, how the discount phone service works and when your number will be ready, how to track the status of a letter or money transfer, what to do if an order did not go through as expected, how to update an inmate's facility information after a transfer, and how to contact InmateAid's support team when you need help. The guidance here is written to get you back on track as quickly as possible so you can focus on what matters, staying connected with your loved one. See also our sections on Send Inmate Mail, Inmate Phone Calls, and Money Transfer.
Related InmateAid Services
If you had an account and the inmate was released, you know there are no refunds. But, if you call in and speak with a rep, we will reinstate the number for you and give you a free month.
Read moreThe mail service is permitted in every jail, prison and detention center. We have suppressed letters and photos function where the facility is "postcards only".
Read moreInmateAid does not monitor, verify or update the user generated inmate profile information unless requested. If you would like us to try and locate them, please email us at aid@inmateaid.com.
Read more"Ask the Inmate" is not a direct communication link to a particular inmate; it is a question and answer forum between you and a former inmate who knows how things work on the inside. To communicate, you can write letters, postcards, greeting cards or send photos - you will have to go to your My Account area and click on the Inmate Page and then click "Letters". You will be able to communicate with them through there.
Read moreInmateAid was created to help folks like you figure out the prison/jail thing. Most of us have no clue about how it all works until you or someone you love gets locked up. If it's a short time, most people get out without worrying too much. But if it's going to be weeks or months or years, InmateAid will navigate you through the tough times. YES, we have over a million visitors a month people seem to really LOVE InmateAid.
Read moreThere is a black X next to each of the prisons selected, if you click it, the prompt will ask if you are sure you want to delete it. the prison you selected now disappears.
Read moreThe Inmate Profiles on InmateAid are created by the Members of the site. If you do not find your inmate when searching, you may simply click "Create a Personal Inmate Page" and add the information. Once set up, your account is synced with the inmate's information to facilitate any service you would like to use. If you do not know the inamte's inforamtion, you may email us at aid@inmateaid.com with the offender's name and at least their state, we will
Read moreSometimes. Since the content is user-generated, it is not monitored or verified unless requested. We are happy to do so but we are not on a live feed from the facilities. Updates are done manually.
Read moreYes, we coordinate well with all of the CDCR facilities. The fire camps are minimum security state facilities that provide good work release opportunities for inmates that qualify, but it's state prison nonetheless. Please let us know what services you'd like to try out and we will send you a coupon code via email. In fact, anyone that asks for a coupon code will get one.
Read moreYou may pay with a prepaid card that you can get at Walmart, Target, drug stores and groceries. They will all work for you.
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